August 7, 2019
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” Philippians 4:11
Paul came to a place in his life—not a physical place, but a spiritual place—where he felt divine contentment. Most people think they know what this word “contentment” means, but let me tell you what it means in God’s Word—“self-contained.”
In the context of this passage, we learn that Paul was thanking people for their love gifts to him, but he wanted them also to know that he was not dependent upon them because God had brought him to a place of sufficiency in Himself alone.
That is, Paul was able to say, “I have learned that I don’t need anything or anybody else, but the Lord. I have Him, and therefore, I am self-contained. I’m not self-sufficient. But I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
Do you have contentment today in Christ alone?
Discover the character of God through His many names revealed in Scripture. This month-long devotional invites you to read, reflect, and respond to the meaning of God's names, renewing your mind and transforming your heart in faith.